Cosmetic Science. What is an Emulsifier?

A cream is a water in oil or oil in water solution that has been blended together with the help of a mixing agent called an emulsifier.  Naturally, oil and water don't mix.  Emulsifiers have a water-loving and an oil-loving side to it that helps to attract and bind the two phases.   

A traditional cream requires to heat both phases to a high temperature to ensure all solid ingredients melt then you combine one phase into the other while mixing.   It takes quite a lot of energy to heat and mix.   Most conventional creams are made this way.  There are a lot of different types of emulsifiers on the market.  Some are 100% chemical and others are 100% natural.  

A common mix of emulsifiers and co-emulsifiers is cetearyl alcohol, ceteareth-20 and cetyl alcohol .  These are all very common, safe cosmetic ingredients that keep the cream stable.

I've tried all kinds of emulsifiers and still looking for the right one.  Email hello@slobeauty.co if you are interested in testing out some of our formulas that are in the works.  Until supplies last.